Rick Perry just released this statement on the death of Peter Terpeluk, a major Republican donor who had been heavily involved in the early formation of the Texas governor's presidential fundraising operation.

“I'm saddened today by the passing of Peter Terpeluk, former ambassador to Luxembourg under President George W. Bush. Peter was a friend who served his country with distinction in both the public and private sectors in addition to working tirelessly to elect Republicans across the country. Anita and I send our sympathies to his wife, Diane, and their children, Trey and Meredith, during this difficult time.”